Bus Driver Cycles to Paris

04 Apr 2016

A Stagecoach bus driver is swapping four wheels for two by cycling 325-miles from London to Paris.

David Bedford, a leading bus driver at Gainsborough depot, will ride from London to Paris to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society. David will start in London on 20 July, crossing the finishing line in Paris on 23 July.

Stagecoach East Midlands have donated £500 to the Alzheimer’s Society in support of David’s bike ride. The cheque was presented to him at the Gainsborough Depot where David is based.

David, 44, said: “I am really pleased that Stagecoach has donated £500 to the Alzheimer’s Society to support my cycle challenge. It’s great that I have the company backing me all the way. It’s going to be tough but I’m really looking forward to taking on the ride.”

To prepare for the challenge, David has been training since the beginning of the year, including a recent 70-mile ride around North Nottinghamshire organised by British Cycling and raising funds for the Retford Lions.

The father of two, who drives contract services such as school and swimming buses, also plans to take part in the Tilnar Challenge on 26 June, an endurance cycle ride raising money for Cancer Research UK and Rice and Porridge.

Michelle Hargreaves, Stagecoach East Midlands Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to donate £500 to the Alzheimer’s Society to support David’s bike ride. It’s a tough challenge and we are proud to be able to support him. We wish him the best of luck.”

David recently visited University Technical College in Lincoln where he talked to students about his challenge and the work of the Alzheimer’s Society.

David said: “I am entering the London to Paris cycle ride for my wife's Grandad, Bill, who had Alzheimer’s disease. He was a lovely man who always had time for everyone and it was a terrible shame to watch him deteriorate from an intelligent, active member of the community to someone who was literally a shell of their former self.
“I am raising money for the Alzheimer's Society not only to bring awareness of this terrible condition but also to help fund a cure for this debilitating condition.”

The Alzheimer’s Society offer support to people who have dementia, keeping them connected to their lives and the people who matter most.